We’re waiting for a new Petitions Committee

Petitions had to stop because of the recent general election. Once a new Petitions Committee is set up by the House of Commons, petitions will start again.

Find out more on the Petitions Committee website

Closed petition Remove pack of hounds exemption from s1 of Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act

Under Section 1, subsection 2A(b) of the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 the offence of worrying livestock does not apply where a pack of hounds is at large (not on a lead or otherwise under close control) in a field or enclosure with sheep. We believe this exemption should be removed.

More details

We think this exemption for packs of hounds is an archaic relic that encourages and allows hunts to ride roughshod over keepers of livestock, and promotes inequity and an arrogant disregard for others.

ALL other s2A(b) exemptions are dogs usually kept under close control, unlike packs of hounds which may be a free roaming mob specifically trained to chase, catch and kill animals.

Harm caused to livestock can be deeply traumatic for farmers, and can impose a significant and unnecessary financial burden or loss for a rural business.

This petition closed early because of a General Election Find out more on the Petitions Committee website

2,707 signatures

Show on a map

10,000